Bridges and Dental Crowns

If you're dealing with damaged or missing teeth, bridges and dental crowns in Denver could be the solution you've been searching for. By covering your decayed teeth or filling gaps, these restorations enhance function and aesthetics in a single procedure. At Makowski Dental, we offer these convenient options to help you regain your smile and confidence!

What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Dental crowns, often referred to as "caps," are custom-made restorations designed to cover a damaged or weakened tooth. They're like a protective shield for your tooth, providing strength, durability, and a natural appearance.

Bridges are also prosthetic devices we use to replace missing teeth. They consist of two main components: crowns and pontics (false teeth). Our dentist places crowns on your adjacent natural teeth or dental implants, while the pontics fill the gap left by missing teeth.

How Are Crowns and Bridges Made?

Our dental team crafts both dental crowns and bridges to ensure a perfect fit. The process typically involves several steps:

• Consultation: During your initial visit, we'll assess your oral health and discuss your goals and treatment options. Together, we'll create a personalized plan for your smile.
  
• Tooth Preparation: For crowns, we prepare the tooth receiving the crown by removing a small amount of enamel. This step allows the crown to fit snugly. For bridges, we get adjacent teeth ready in the same way.
  
• Impressions: We'll take precise impressions of your teeth to create a mold, which we will use to fabricate your custom crowns and bridges.
  
• Temporary Restorations: While your permanent crowns or bridges are being crafted in a dental laboratory, we place temporary restorations to protect your teeth.
  
• Final Placement: Once your custom crowns or bridges are ready, you'll return to our office for their placement. We will make sure they fit and give you instructions how to care for them.
  

Which Issues Can Crowns and Bridges Fix?

We place dental crowns to cover and restore decayed teeth, which prevents the need for tooth extraction. Our team also uses these restorations to repair cracks, fractures, or breaks. Crowns work wonders for cosmetic concerns, like misshapen or discolored teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

On the other hand, dental bridges are an excellent solution when you have missing teeth. Beyond filling the gaps in your smile, bridges prevent complications like shifting teeth and difficulties with chewing. Moreover, they maintain the natural structure of your face by supporting the adjacent teeth and preventing sagging.  

Benefits of Choosing Bridges and Dental Crowns

Strengthening Teeth

Crowns add strength and protection to your weakened or damaged teeth and prevent further deterioration.

Natural Appearance

Custom-made crowns and bridges blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and create a beautiful smile.

Longevity

With proper care, crowns and bridges can last for many years, providing a long-lasting solution to dental issues.

Improved Aesthetics

Since crowns and bridges cover damaged teeth and fill gaps in your smile, they enhance your overall appearance and self-confidence.

Enhanced Chewing Ability

By restoring missing and decayed teeth, bridges and crowns allow you to enjoy your favorite foods without difficulty.

Preserving Oral Health

Bridges prevent your neighboring teeth from shifting and maintain proper oral hygiene.

Are Crowns and Bridges Permanent?

Crowns and bridges are durable and long-lasting solutions, but they often require maintenance or replacement over time. Crowns typically last 10-15 years or more, while bridges may last 5-15 years or longer. The longevity of your restoration depends on various factors, including your oral hygiene, dietary habits, and the quality of materials used.

How Do I Care for My Bridges and Dental Crowns?

If you adopt proper care habits for your bridges and dental crowns, you can make them last longer while maintaining a healthier smile. Here are some easy-to-follow guidelines:

• Maintain a diligent oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay extra attention to the area around your crowns and bridges.
  
• Don't forget to floss to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around your restorations. You can use dental floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser for effective cleaning.
  
• Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash as part of your routine to help control bacteria and keep your gums healthy.
  
• Visit our dental team for regular check-ups and cleanings. We can assess the condition of your crowns and bridges and provide professional cleaning and maintenance.
  
• Be cautious when consuming hard or sticky foods, as they can damage your crowns or bridges. Try to minimize chewing on ice, hard candies, and non-food items.
  
• If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a nightguard. Teeth grinding can put additional stress on your restorations.
  
• If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking can stain your crowns and bridges and increase the risk of gum disease.
  
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which can contribute to overall oral health and the longevity of your restorations.
  

Ready to Fix Your Smile with Bridges and Dental Crowns in Denver?

At Makowski Dental, we're committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you need dental crowns to restore damaged teeth or bridges to replace missing ones, our experienced team is here to provide you with quality care and exceptional results. Get an appointment today!